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What is Shear?
Shear seems like a simple enough concept to most
people until they’re asked to define it. Related to liquids,
shear is defined as relative motion between adjacent layers
of a moving liquid. Some of the simplest examples include
spreading butter on bread or applying sunscreen. In each
case one level of the liquid (butter on the knife) is moving
relative to the adjacent layer (butter on the bread).
By also considering the velocity of this relative motion, we can calculate the
shear rate. Shear rate is defined as the measure of the extent or rate of relative motion
between adjacent layers of a moving liquid. Therefore:
Shear Rate = Velocity / Distance
Using the same example, we can raise the shear rate by either raising the
velocity of the knife or by placing the knife closer to the bread.
By further breaking down the equation:
Shear Rate = (Distance / Time) / Distance
= Time-1
Using seconds as the unit of time, Time-1 becomes seconds-1. Shear rate is
normally expressed in units of reciprocal seconds (sec-1).
©2007 www.pumpschool.com
Shear Rate as it Pertains to Pump Selection
As discussed above, shear sensitive liquids can behave very differently when
sheared. Some require shear to get them to the ideal viscosity for transfer or
application. Others can be temporary or irrevocably damaged by shear. It’s important
to discuss the liquid’s nature with the manufacturer or to have a rheology test performed
to determine how the liquid behaves when sheared over time.
As soon as the liquid leaves the vessel and enters the suction piping, it begins to
shear as the liquid traveling through the middle of the pipe moves in relation to the pipe
walls. The pump imparts shear as well between the rotating pumping elements and the
stationary casing.
Calculating these shear rates is possible using the equation above and
considering the flow rate, pipe diameters, pump rotational speed, and internal pump
dimensions. Combined with the liquid’s rheology data, this can help to make an
educated decision regarding pump selection and sizing.
©2007 www.pumpschool.com